
Laolongtou (Old Dragon's Head) Shanhaiguan
Where the Great Wall of China dramatically meets the Bohai Sea, offering a unique historical and scenic spectacle.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Laolongtou (Old Dragon's Head) Shanhaiguan
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Where the Great Wall of China dramatically meets the Bohai Sea, offering a unique historical and scenic spectacle.
"A great place to see where the Great Wall meets the sea, with historical defense towers and walls."

📸 Great Photo Opportunities
Perfect spot for photos, especially where the wall meets the sea. Consider a jet ski for unique sea views!
🚶♀️ Explore the Maze
Don't miss the fun maze within the park – a delightful detour for all ages.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Dragon Head
Where the Great Wall meets the sea
Witness the iconic end of the Great Wall plunging into the Bohai Sea. A truly unique historical and visual spectacle.

Historic Defense Structures
Within the Laolongtou complex
Explore ancient watchtowers, walls, and fortresses showcasing ingenious Ming Dynasty military architecture.

The Great Wall's Original Bricks
Protected sections of the wall
See remnants of the original Great Wall, preserved amidst the rebuilt sections, offering a tangible link to history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Laolongtou
Getting to the Great Wall's End
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
the end of the great wall of china
📸 Great Photo Opportunities
Perfect spot for photos, especially where the wall meets the sea. Consider a jet ski for unique sea views!
🚶♀️ Explore the Maze
Don't miss the fun maze within the park – a delightful detour for all ages.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Lots of walking involved to explore the walls and surrounding areas.
💰 Entrance Fee
Expect an entrance fee of around 50-60 RMB for the wall, beach, and park areas.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Great Photo Opportunities
Perfect spot for photos, especially where the wall meets the sea. Consider a jet ski for unique sea views!
🚶♀️ Explore the Maze
Don't miss the fun maze within the park – a delightful detour for all ages.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Lots of walking involved to explore the walls and surrounding areas.
💰 Entrance Fee
Expect an entrance fee of around 50-60 RMB for the wall, beach, and park areas.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are impressed by Laolongtou's unique status as the Great Wall's endpoint at the sea, praising the historical architecture and scenic views. Many appreciate the opportunity to see original wall sections and enjoy the surrounding park. However, some note that much of the site is rebuilt and it can get quite crowded, especially during peak times.
"Great to be able to see where the great wall meets the sea. Has shops and food stalls too. Expect it to be busy."
Paul Turner
"It's a great place to see the wisdom of building of histrionic Defence towers, walls and fortresses."
Tony Choy
""The Dragon Head"
This is where the famous wall ends at the sea. Most of this wall has been rebuilt but there are still some areas where they kept the original brick intact and protected. About 50rmb charge for the wall, beach side and areas around. Other activities cost a little extra but I didn't do them. Great place for taking pictures and lots of walking around. There is also a nice maze you can enjoy getting lost in. About 1.5hrs from Beijing or Tianjin on the bullet train. A day spent here should be enough."
Leo Gomez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way is by bullet train, which takes about 1.5 hours. From the nearest station, you can take a taxi to Laolongtou, which is about 20 minutes away and costs around 45 RMB.
Yes, while bullet trains are efficient, local buses might also connect from Qinhuangdao city center to the Laolongtou area, though specific routes and schedules would require local verification.
Laolongtou is approximately 15 kilometers from Qinhuangdao city center, a drive that typically takes about 20 minutes by taxi.
Yes, driving is an option, and there is likely parking available at the site. However, check local traffic conditions and potential road closures before your trip.
Many tour operators in Beijing and Tianjin offer day trips or multi-day tours that include Laolongtou, often combining it with other historical sites in the region.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is typically around 50-60 RMB per person, which usually covers access to the Great Wall sections, the beachside, and the park.
Yes, some activities like jet skiing or visiting specific exhibits might incur additional costs beyond the general admission fee.
Opening hours can vary seasonally, but it's generally open during daylight hours. It's advisable to check the official website or local listings for the most current times.
While on-site purchase is common, some platforms might offer online booking for convenience, especially during peak tourist seasons. It's worth checking popular Chinese travel sites.
Information on discounts for students, seniors, or children is not widely publicized. It's best to inquire at the ticket counter upon arrival or check official sources.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can see the historic Great Wall meeting the sea, ancient defense towers, original wall sections, and a maze. There are also shops and food stalls.
Yes, it's a great place for families. Kids can enjoy exploring the historical structures, the maze, and the beachside.
A day trip should be sufficient to explore the main attractions. If you plan to do many activities or relax by the sea, you might need more time.
Yes, there are shops and food stalls within the Laolongtou complex offering various local snacks and meals.
Expect a good amount of walking as you explore the extensive Great Wall sections, towers, and the surrounding park areas. Comfortable shoes are a must.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic photo spot is where the Great Wall dramatically meets the sea. Also, capture the historic defense towers and any remaining original wall sections.
Yes, taking a jet ski ride offers a unique perspective for photographing the 'Old Dragon's Head' from the sea.
Mornings or late afternoons often provide softer light and fewer crowds, making them ideal for photography. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends.
Drone usage is typically restricted at historical sites and national parks in China. It's best to check the specific regulations at Laolongtou before flying one.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the Great Wall meeting the sea. A telephoto lens can be useful for details on the distant towers. Don't forget a polarizing filter for the sea.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to wear comfortable shoes as there's a lot of walking involved. Pack snacks and water, although food stalls are available. The historical context can be made more engaging for children by explaining the 'dragon's head' analogy and the purpose of the wall. It's a great educational outing that feels like an adventure.
🚶 Budget Travelers
While there are food stalls, bringing your own snacks and water can save money. Focus on exploring the main wall and historical structures, as additional activities might increase the overall expense. Weekday visits can also sometimes mean fewer crowds and a more relaxed experience without extra cost.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Great Wall's Maritime Frontier
Much of the visible structure at Laolongtou has been rebuilt to preserve its historical integrity and allow for tourism. However, efforts have been made to retain and protect original brickwork where possible, offering a glimpse into the authentic Ming Dynasty construction. The site also encompasses a beach area and a park, providing a more relaxed atmosphere alongside the historical exploration. The combination of historical significance and natural beauty makes Laolongtou a compelling destination for history buffs and sightseers alike.
Beyond the wall itself, the complex includes various historical buildings and a notable maze, adding layers of interest for visitors. The strategic wisdom behind building such extensive defenses at the coast is evident, showcasing the ingenuity of ancient Chinese military engineering. A visit here offers not just a visual spectacle but also a deeper appreciation for China's rich history and its enduring defensive structures.
Navigating to Laolongtou
For those already in Qinhuangdao, Laolongtou is a mere 15 kilometers away, easily covered by a quick taxi ride. While public bus options might exist, they are often less direct and can be time-consuming. Therefore, taxis or ride-sharing services are generally recommended for ease and speed. It's always a good idea to have the destination name written in Chinese characters to assist local drivers.
When planning your trip, factor in the entrance fee, which is typically in the range of 50-60 RMB per person. This fee usually grants access to the main historical areas, including the Great Wall sections and the park. While the journey is manageable, booking train tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons, is advisable to secure your preferred travel times.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit